Mark Thomas Serrano

Mark Thomas Garcia Serrano, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and community leader, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on April 4, 2025, at the age of 45. Born in Velbert, Germany, on November 21, 1979, Mark moved as an infant to San Jose, California, where he would spend most of his life building family, friendships, and a powerful legacy of service.

Mark is survived by his wife, Ann Leslie Vinoya, and their beloved son, Francis Santino. He is also survived by his parents, Wilfredo and Letecia Serrano; his siblings, Elicriz Hernandez (John) and Virgil Serrano; and nephews Giovanni and Jonah. He joins in peace his grandmother, Cristina Serrano, and many dear family and friends whose memories he carried with him.

A proud graduate of San Francisco State University, where he earned his B.A. in Asian American Studies, Mark was deeply shaped by his experience as a first-generation Filipino American. That identity inspired a lifelong commitment to empowering youth, advocating for the community, and celebrating Filipino American history.

Mark served as Executive Director of the Filipino Youth Coalition (FYC), a board member of the Filipino American National Historical Society Santa Clara Valley chapter (FANHS SCV), a founding organizer of Filipino Americans Coming Together San José (FACT SJ), and Vice President of San Jose Zulu Nation. Through these roles, he helped shape a generation of young leaders, organized countless community events, and worked tirelessly to uplift marginalized voices.

To many, he was Manong Mark. “Manong”—an Ilokano term meaning “older brother”—is a title of respect and affection. Mark embraced it fully, becoming the big brother, mentor, and hype man so many relied on. He was also a devoted friend—loyal, generous, and always present. Whether showing up to support someone, offering a listening ear, or sharing a laugh, he made people feel seen and valued.

Mark also had a deep love for Filipino food. Like a true Manong, one of his favorite dishes was pinapaitan, a famously bitter Ilokano soup he enjoyed with Hennessy—his drink of choice when celebrating life’s joyful moments.

Professionally, Mark worked for Ooma Inc., a telecommunications company based in Silicon Valley. But his passions extended far beyond the office. He was a talented DJ, tattoo artist, and visual storyteller. Through music, art, and activism, he expressed his bold personality and unwavering love for community. He loved to travel and made unforgettable memories exploring the Philippines, Europe, Mexico, and many states across the U.S. While Hawaiʻi held a special place in his heart, San Jose was always home. Mark was unapologetically outspoken, magnetic, and deeply compassionate—a true friend to many.

Above all, Mark was most proud of being a father to his 2-year-old son, Francis Santino. Francis was the light of his life, and Mark cherished every moment they spent together—singing songs, teaching him new words, or playing with Monster Trucks and Hot Wheels. He dreamed of sharing his passions with Francis, especially his love for community and culture. Mark beamed with pride when he spoke about his son, always eager to share milestones or laugh about the funny things Francis would do. When Francis wasn’t nearby, Mark would often scroll through photos and videos, keeping that connection close. Fatherhood was his greatest joy, and everything he did was rooted in love for his family.

As he often said, “Community is everything to me.” Mark embodied this in every part of his life, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.